Work support device, work support method and work support program

Abstract

To encourage a worker to take a break without disturbing the concentration on work.SOLUTION: A work support device according to one embodiment includes: an interface with a sensor for detecting worker's status relating to a worker himself during work and a presentation device that presents information to the worker; a processor; and a memory. The processor alternately measures remaining time periods of a work time period and a break time period, which are specified time periods, respectively, and presents the end of the work time period or the break time period to the worker via the interface using the presentation device, at the end of each time period. The processor also acquires the worker's status from the sensor via the interface, stores it in the memory, and extends the measured work time period based on the worker's status stored in the memory.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a work assistance device, a work assistance method, and a work assistance program. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART A work support system is known that includes a timer that repeatedly prompts a worker to take a break after performing office work such as operating a personal computer for a certain period of time, and then prompts the worker to return to work after the break period has ended.

[0003] Furthermore, as a technology for improving worker productivity, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a rest guidance system that detects at least one of a worker's fatigue level and alertness level, detects the worker's condition, and provides guidance on a rest method suitable for the worker's condition based on at least one of the worker's fatigue level and alertness level. Patent Document 1 discloses the type of work, elapsed time, remaining working time, surrounding environment, etc. as the worker's condition, and discloses changing the type of work, taking a rest, changing the environment, etc. as the rest method suitable for the worker's condition.

[0004] However, if workers are encouraged to take a break based on time or their level of fatigue and alertness, this in itself can become a factor that hinders the worker's concentration when they are concentrating on their work, and reduce the worker's work efficiency. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-131024 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a work support device, a work support method, and a work support program that can encourage a worker to take a break without disturbing the worker's concentration on the work. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A work assistance device according to one embodiment includes an interface with a sensor that detects the worker's status during work and a presentation device that presents information to the worker, a processor, and a memory. The processor alternately measures the remaining time of a specified work time and a specified break time, and at the end of each time, presents the end of the work time or break time to the worker via the interface using the presentation device. The processor also acquires the worker's status from the sensor via the interface, stores it in memory, and extends the measured work time based on the worker's status stored in the memory. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a work assistance device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a work assistance system including a work assistance device. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents stored in the timer information storage unit included in the work assistance device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the first part of a series of flowcharts for explaining an example of the operation of the task assistance device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the second part of a series of flowcharts for explaining an example of the operation of the task assistance device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the third part of a series of flowcharts for explaining an example of the operation of the work assistance device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the fourth part of a series of flowcharts for explaining an example of the operation of the work assistance device. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining an example of a remaining time screen displayed on a touch display included in the work support system while the worker is working. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining an example of a remaining time screen during an extended work time displayed on the touch display while the worker is working. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified portion of the flowchart shown in FIG. 7, for explaining an example of the operation of a work assistance device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a work assistance device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents stored in the timer information storage unit included in the work assistance device. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the first part of a series of flowcharts for explaining an example of the operation of the task assistance device. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the second part of a series of flowcharts for explaining an example of the operation of the task assistance device. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining an example of a remaining time screen during a task time reduction that is displayed on the touch display while the worker is working. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a work assistance device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents stored in the timer information storage unit included in the work assistance device. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the first part of a series of flowcharts for explaining an example of the operation of the task assistance device. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the second part of a series of flowcharts for explaining an example of the operation of the task assistance device. [Figure 20]FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of transition data of the concentration degree in the past. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the task assistance device related to the process of storing past concentration levels. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a work support system including a work support server as a modified example of the work support device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a work assistance device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents stored in the timer information storage unit included in the work assistance device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0010] [First embodiment] First, a work support device 1 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of the work support device 1 according to the first embodiment, and Fig. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of the configuration of a work support system including the work support device 1.

[0011] The work support system includes a work support device 1, and a concentration measurement sensor 2 and a touch display 3 connected to the work support device 1. The work support device 1 is connected to the concentration measurement sensor 2 and the touch display 3. The work support device 1 can be configured, for example, by a personal computer.

[0012] The concentration level measuring sensor 2 is a sensor that measures the concentration level of a worker as the worker state, which is the state of the worker himself while working. For example, the concentration level measuring sensor 2 includes a plurality of sensors that detect information such as the worker's pulse wave, body movement, and brain waves, and measures the worker's concentration level based on the information detected by these sensors. The concentration level measuring sensor 2 may be the alertness sensor disclosed in Patent Document 1. The concentration level measuring sensor 2 supplies the measured concentration level value to the work assistance device 1.

[0013] The touch display 3 is an example of a presentation device that displays image information created by the work assistance device 1. The touch display 3 can be configured, for example, by a liquid crystal display with a touch sensor panel arranged in front of it. The touch display 3 supplies the work assistance device 1 with information indicating the position of the worker's touch on the touch sensor panel. The work assistance device 1 can grasp the details of the worker's operation based on the image information displayed on the touch display 3 and the position of the worker's touch. The touch display 3 can also have a speaker that generates sound according to the audio information output by the work assistance device 1.

[0014] The work support device 1 alternately measures the remaining time of the worker's work time and break time, each of which is a specified time, and at the end of each, performs an operation of notifying the worker of the end of the work time or break time via the touch display 3. The work support device 1 also acquires a numerical value of the worker's concentration level while working from the concentration level measurement sensor 2, and adjusts the measured work time based on this concentration level numerical value, a specified time before the end of the work time.

[0015] Here, as shown in FIG. 2 , the work system can be installed, for example, in a work booth BO where a worker performs work. Of course, the work system can also be installed in a general work area, such as an unenclosed office. A worker chair CH and a worker desk DE are installed in the work booth BO. A work personal computer PC, a worker keyboard KE, a worker display DI, and other devices are placed on the worker desk DE. For example, the concentration measurement sensor 2 and the touch display 3 are attached to the wall of the work booth BO, and the work support device 1 is installed under the worker chair CH. The work support device 1 may also be attached to the wall of the work booth BO. The installation position of the concentration measurement sensor 2 need only be a position where it can measure the worker's concentration, and is not limited to a position on the wall of the work booth BO. Similarly, the touch display 3 can be located anywhere as long as it allows the worker to check the displayed content and perform touch operations. The installation position of the work support device 1 is not particularly limited because it is independent of the worker's position.

[0016] As shown in Fig. 1, the work support device 1 includes a processor 11, a main memory 12, an auxiliary storage device 13, a clock 14, an input / output interface 15, and a system transmission path 16. The system transmission path 16 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The system transmission path 16 connects the processor 11 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them. The processor 11, the main memory 12, and the auxiliary storage device 13 are connected by the system transmission path 16 to form a computer for the work support device 1.

[0017] The processor 11 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 11 controls each part to realize various functions of the task assistance device 1 according to an operating system or a control program. The processor 11 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 11 may be a multi-core / multi-threaded processor and can execute multiple processes in parallel. The processor 11 may be, for example, an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), an SoC (System on a Chip), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). Alternatively, the processor 11 may be a combination of two or more of these.

[0018] The main memory 12 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 12 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The nonvolatile memory area of ​​the main memory 12 stores firmware such as a BIOS (Basic Input Output System) that is executed by the processor 11 prior to the operating system. The main memory 12 stores the operating system, control programs and data required for the processor 11 to execute processes for controlling each component, in either a nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 12 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 11 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, a ROM (Read Only Memory) or an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0019] The auxiliary storage device 13 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid state drive (SSD) can be the auxiliary storage device 13. The auxiliary storage device 13 stores data used by the processor 11 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 11, etc. For example, the storage area of ​​the auxiliary storage device 13 can include a concentration level recording unit 131, a concentration flag 132, and a timer information storage unit 133. The auxiliary storage device 13 can also store a control program.

[0020] The concentration level recording unit 131 records the numerical data of the concentration level of the worker measured by the concentration level measuring sensor 2.

[0021] The concentration flag 132 is a flag that is set when the worker is concentrating on the work.

[0022] The timer information storage unit 133 stores the aforementioned specified work time and rest time of the worker. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents stored in the timer information storage unit 133 of the work support device. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, the timer information storage unit 133 stores a set work time, a set rest time, and a set extension time. The set work time is the time a worker works, such as two hours. The set rest time is the break time a worker takes between tasks, such as 10 minutes. The set extension time is the maximum extension time, such as 15 minutes, when extending the work time when the worker is concentrating on the work. These set times are set as initial values ​​by a work support program, which is one of the control programs stored in the main memory 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13. Furthermore, these set times may be updated to any time by the worker using the touch display 3.

[0023] The clock 14 keeps time.

[0024] The input / output interface 15 controls data transmission between the processor 11 and the concentration measuring sensor 2 and touch display 3. Specifically, the input / output interface 15 receives concentration data transmitted from the concentration measuring sensor 2 and transmits it to the processor 11. The input / output interface 15 also transmits image information and audio information from the processor 11 to the touch display 3. Furthermore, the input / output interface 15 receives touch position data transmitted from the touch display 3 and transmits it to the processor 11.

[0025] Next, we will explain each unit implemented in the processor 11 of the work support device 1. The processor 11 executes a work support program, which is one of the control programs stored in the main memory 12 or the auxiliary storage device 13, to realize functional units such as a display control unit 111, an operation determination unit 112, a concentration level acquisition unit 113, a concentration state determination unit 114, and a timer state management unit 115. It can also be said that each functional unit is implemented in the processor 11. It can also be said that each unit implemented in the processor 11 is implemented in a control unit including the processor 11 and the main memory 12.

[0026] The display control unit 111 controls display on the touch display 3 via the input / output interface 15. For example, the display control unit 111 generates image information of various screens to be displayed on the touch display 3 according to the operating status of the work assistance device 1 at that time, and transmits it to the input / output interface 15. As a result, the image information is supplied from the input / output interface 15 to the touch display 3, and the touch display 3 displays a screen based on the image information. The display control unit 111 also generates audio information to be generated by a speaker provided in the touch display 3 according to the operating status of the work assistance device 1 at that time, and transmits it to the input / output interface 15. As a result, the audio information is supplied from the input / output interface 15 to the touch display 3, and the touch display 3 outputs sound based on the audio information from its speaker.

[0027] The operation determination unit 112 acquires touch position data from the touch display 3 transmitted from the input / output interface 15. Then, the operation determination unit 112 determines the operation content of the worker based on this acquired touch position data and image information of the screen displayed on the touch display 3 by the display control unit 111. Specifically, if the image information includes a button image at a predetermined position on the screen and the touch position is at a position corresponding to the button image, the operation determination unit 112 determines that the button has been pressed by the worker. For example, a start screen displayed in response to power-on of the work support device 1 includes a "start work" button image for instructing the worker to start a timer that counts the remaining work time, and if the touch position corresponds to the position of this "start work" button image, the operation determination unit 112 can determine that a timer start operation has been performed.

[0028] In response to a timer start operation, the concentration level acquisition unit 113 acquires data on the worker's concentration level during work from the concentration level measurement sensor 2 transmitted from the input / output interface 15. The concentration level acquisition unit 113 can be said to be a detection unit that detects the worker's concentration level during work. The concentration level acquisition unit 113 records the acquired numerical data on the concentration level in the concentration level recording unit 131. This allows the concentration level recording unit 131 to record the numerical data on the worker's concentration level acquired in time series as time series data. Note that in this embodiment, only the concentration level during work is recorded, but it is also possible to record the concentration level during breaks.

[0029] The concentration state determination unit 114 reads out time-series data of the worker's concentration level recorded in the concentration level recording unit 131, and determines the worker's concentration level based on the time-series data of the concentration level. For example, if the concentration level is higher than a predetermined threshold, it determines that the worker is concentrating on the task they are currently performing. The concentration state determination unit 114 makes this determination a specified time before the end of the task, for example, five minutes before, and if it determines that the worker is concentrating on the task, it sets the concentration flag 132.

[0030] The concentration state determination unit 114 may use multiple thresholds to determine multiple levels of concentration states. For example, using two thresholds, the concentration state determination unit 114 can determine three levels of concentration states, such as not concentrating, concentrating, and very concentrating, based on the recorded concentration level values.

[0031] Here, the threshold value can be a fixed value. Alternatively, the average value of the concentration level since the worker started working can be used as the threshold value, based on the time-series data of the concentration level values ​​recorded in the concentration level recording unit 131. In the latter case, the worker may be determined to be concentrating if the concentration level is higher than a specified range for the threshold value, for example, higher than 1.2 times the threshold value. If the specified range is 1.0 times, the worker is determined to be concentrating if the concentration level is higher than the threshold value.

[0032] Furthermore, the concentration level to be determined can be the latest concentration level value among the time-series data of concentration level values ​​recorded in the concentration level recording unit 131. Alternatively, the average value (moving average value) of the concentration level values ​​from the latest value to a certain time before that, for example, up to 5 seconds before, can be used.

[0033] The concentration state determination unit 114 may also use a machine learning engine that learns in advance from the concentration level value of the worker measured by the concentration level measurement sensor 2 and output values ​​from other sensors, and predicts future concentration level values ​​using time-series data of concentration level values ​​from the start of work and values ​​from other sensors as input. The concentration state determination unit 114 can compare the future concentration level value obtained using this machine learning engine with a threshold value to determine the worker's future concentration state. Note that the machine learning engine may also be used when determining the worker's concentration state from the current concentration level value or moving average value.

[0034] The timer status management unit 115 counts the remaining time of the work time and the rest time, and includes a work timer 1151, a rest timer 1152, and an extension timer 1153.

[0035] The work timer 1151 is a timer that measures the remaining time of work. When the worker starts work, the timer status management unit 115 sets the set work time stored in the timer information storage unit 133 as an initial value in this work timer 1151, and measures the remaining time of work. The timer status management unit 115 supplies the remaining time of work time measured by this work timer 1151 to the display control unit 111. The display control unit 111 generates image information for a screen indicating the remaining time of work time, and causes the touch display 3 to display a screen based on that image information via the input / output interface 15. This makes it possible, for example, to display a screen indicating that the set work time has ended when the work timer 1151 times out. The display control unit 111 and the timer status management unit 115 are an example of a presentation unit that notifies the worker when the work time has ended.

[0036] The break timer 1152 is a timer that measures the remaining time of the break time. When the worker starts taking a break, the timer state management unit 115 sets the set break time stored in the timer information storage unit 133 as an initial value in the break timer 1152 and measures the remaining time of the break time. The timer state management unit 115 supplies the remaining time of the break time measured by the break timer 1152 to the display control unit 111. The display control unit 111 generates image information for a screen indicating the remaining time of the break time and causes the touch display 3 to display a screen based on the image information via the input / output interface 15. This makes it possible to display a screen indicating that the set break time has ended, for example, when the break timer 1152 times out. The display control unit 111 and the timer state management unit 115 are an example of a presentation unit that notifies the worker when the break time has ended.

[0037] The extension timer 1153 is a timer that measures the remaining time of the extension time. When the concentration flag 132 is set, i.e., when the worker is concentrating on the work, the timer status management unit 115 sets the extension timer 1153 to the set extension time stored in the timer information storage unit 133 as an initial value when the work time expires, and measures the remaining time of the extended work time. The timer status management unit 115 supplies the remaining time of the extension time measured by the extension timer 1153 to the display control unit 111. The display control unit 111 generates image information for a screen indicating the remaining time of the extension time and displays a screen based on the image information on the touch display 3 via the input / output interface 15. This allows, for example, a screen indicating that the work time, including the set extension time, has ended when the extension timer 1153 expires. The concentration state determination unit 114 and the timer status management unit 115 are an example of an adjustment unit that adjusts the work time based on the concentration level measured by the concentration level measurement sensor 2 a specified time before the end of the work time.

[0038] 4 to 7 are a series of flowcharts illustrating an example of the operation of the work support device 1. The operation of the work support device 1 is controlled by the processor 11 that executes the work support program. Unless otherwise specified, the processing operations shown in FIGS. 4 to 7 transition from ACTn (n is a natural number) to ACT(n+1). The procedures shown in FIGS. 4 to 7 are merely examples. As long as similar results are obtained, the procedures are not particularly limited. Here, the setting operation by the worker of each set time stored in the timer information storage unit 133 is omitted. This processing operation is started, for example, by turning on a power button (not shown). It may be started in conjunction with the light switch of the work booth BO or the power-on of the work personal computer PC.

[0039] In ACT11, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115 and sets the set work time stored in the timer information storage unit 133 in the work timer 1151.

[0040] In ACT12, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115, and starts counting the remaining time of the work time using the work timer 1151.

[0041] As ACT13, the processor 11 operates as the display control unit 111 and causes the touch display 3 to update and display the remaining time screen. Specifically, the processor 11 generates image information of a remaining time screen indicating the remaining time of the work time measured by the work timer 1151, and supplies this to the touch display 3 via the input / output interface 15. The touch display 3 displays the remaining time screen based on this image information.

[0042] Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the remaining time screen 31 displayed on the touch display 3 while the worker is working. The remaining time screen 31 displayed during work displays the remaining work time measured by the work timer 1151. Fig. 8 shows an example in which the remaining work time is 24 minutes and 59 seconds.

[0043] In ACT 14, the processor 11 operates as the timer status management unit 115 and determines whether the work timer 1151 has timed out, that is, whether the clocking of the set work time has ended. If the work timer 1151 has timed out, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 14 and transitions to the processing of ACT 26. If the work timer 1151 has not yet timed out, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT 14 and transitions to the processing of ACT 15.

[0044] As ACT15, the processor 11 operates as the concentration level acquisition unit 113, acquires data on the concentration level of the worker from the concentration level measurement sensor 2 via the input / output interface 15, and records it in the concentration level recording unit 131.

[0045] In ACT16, the processor 11 operates as the timer status management unit 115 and determines whether a specified time, for example, five minutes, remains until the time expires on the work timer 1151, that is, until the end of the work time, which is set to, for example, two hours. This specified time is determined by the work assistance program, but may also be set in advance by the worker. If the specified time remains until the time expires on the work timer 1151, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT16 and transitions to processing in ACT22. If the specified time remains until the time expires on the work timer 1151, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT16 and transitions to processing in ACT17.

[0046] In ACT17, the processor 11 operates as the operation determination unit 112 and determines whether or not an interruption operation has been performed to instruct the work timer 1151 to interrupt the counting of the remaining work time. As shown in FIG. 8, the remaining time screen 31 includes a "interrupt work" button 32 that is operated when temporarily interrupting work. For example, the worker operates this "interrupt work" button 32 when temporarily interrupting work, such as to go to the toilet. The processor 11 can make the determination in ACT17 by determining whether or not this "interrupt work" button 32 has been operated. If an interruption operation has not been performed, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT17 and transitions to processing in ACT13. If an interruption operation has been performed, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT17 and transitions to processing in ACT18.

[0047] In ACT18, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115 to temporarily halt the work timer 1151, that is, to stop the work timer 1151 from timing the remaining work time.

[0048] In ACT19, the processor 11 operates as the display control unit 111, generates image information for a pause screen, supplies it to the touch display 3 via the input / output interface 15, and causes the touch display 3 to display a pause screen based on the image information. Although not particularly shown, this pause screen can be, for example, a "Pause work" button 32 on the remaining time screen 31 shown in Fig. 8, which has been changed to a "Resume" button that is operated when returning to work.

[0049] In ACT20, the processor 11 operates as the operation determination unit 112 and determines whether or not a work resume operation has been performed to instruct the work timer 1151 to resume timing the remaining work time. For example, the processor 11 can make this determination in ACT20 by determining whether or not the "Resume" button on the pause screen has been operated. If a work resume operation has not been performed, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT20 and transitions to processing in ACT19. If a work resume operation has been performed, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT20 and transitions to processing in ACT21.

[0050] In ACT21, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115 and restarts the counting of the remaining work time by the work timer 1151 from the time counted at the time of interruption. Thereafter, the processor 11 transitions to the processing of ACT13 and returns the screen on the touch display 3 to the remaining time screen 31.

[0051] In ACT 22, processor 11 operates as concentration state determination unit 114 and determines the concentration state of the worker based on time-series data of the concentration level values ​​recorded in concentration level recording unit 131. For example, processor 11 determines that the worker is concentrating when the current concentration level or the future concentration level is higher than a threshold value, that is, when the worker's current concentration level is sufficiently high.

[0052] In ACT 23, the processor 11 operates as the concentration state determination unit 114 and determines whether or not a determination result indicating concentration has been obtained. If a determination result indicating concentration has not been obtained, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT 23 and transitions to the processing of ACT 13. If a determination result indicating concentration has been obtained, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 23 and transitions to the processing of ACT 24.

[0053] In ACT24, the processor 11 operates as the concentration state determination unit 114 and sets the concentration flag 132. Thereafter, the processor 11 transitions to the processing of ACT13.

[0054] In ACT 25, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115 and determines whether the concentration flag 132 is set. If the concentration flag 132 is set, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 25 and transitions to the processing of ACT 34. If the concentration flag 132 is not set, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT 25 and transitions to the processing of ACT 26.

[0055] As ACT26, the processor 11 operates as the display control unit 111 to notify the worker that the work time has ended. Specifically, the processor 11 generates image information of a work time end screen, and supplies this image information to the touch display 3 via the input / output interface 15 together with audio information indicating that the work time has ended. As a result, the touch display 3 displays the work time end screen based on the image information, and outputs an audio signal indicating the end of the work time from the speaker. Although not particularly shown in the figure, this work time end screen can be, for example, a screen in which the "interrupt work" button 32 on the remaining time screen 31 shown in FIG. 8 is replaced with a "start break" button that is operated when taking a break.

[0056] In ACT27, the processor 11 operates as the operation determination unit 112 and determines whether or not a break start operation has been performed to instruct the user to take a break. For example, the processor 11 can make the determination in ACT27 by determining whether or not the "Start Break" button on the work time end screen has been operated. If a break start operation has not been performed, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT27 and transitions to the processing of ACT26. If a break start operation has been performed, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT27 and transitions to the processing of ACT28.

[0057] In ACT28, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115 and sets the break timer 1152 to the set break time stored in the timer information storage unit 133.

[0058] In ACT29, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115, and starts counting the remaining time of the break time using the break timer 1152.

[0059] As ACT30, the processor 11 operates as the display control unit 111 and causes the touch display 3 to update and display a remaining time screen. Specifically, the processor 11 generates image information of a remaining time screen indicating the remaining time of the break time being measured by the break timer 1152, supplies this to the touch display 3 via the input / output interface 15, and causes the touch display 3 to update and display the remaining time screen based on this image information. Although not particularly shown in the figure, this remaining time screen displays the remaining time of the break time being measured by the break timer 1152.

[0060] In ACT 31, the processor 11 operates as the timer status management unit 115 and determines whether the break timer 1152 has timed out, that is, whether the timing of the set break time has finished. If the break timer 1152 has not yet timed out, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT 31 and transitions to the processing of ACT 30. If the break timer 1152 has timed out, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 31 and transitions to the processing of ACT 32.

[0061] As ACT32, the processor 11 operates as the display control unit 111 to notify the worker that the break time has ended. Specifically, the processor 11 generates image information of a break time end screen, and supplies this image information to the touch display 3 via the input / output interface 15 together with audio information indicating that the break time has ended. As a result, the touch display 3 displays the break time end screen based on the image information, and outputs an audio signal indicating the end of the break time from the speaker. Although not particularly shown in the figure, this break time end screen can be, for example, a screen in which the "Stop work" button 32 on the remaining time screen 31 shown in FIG. 8 is replaced with a "Start work" button that is operated when starting work.

[0062] In ACT33, the processor 11 operates as the operation determination unit 112 and determines whether or not a work start operation has been performed to instruct the user to start work. For example, the processor 11 can make the determination in ACT33 by determining whether or not the "Start work" button on the break time end screen has been operated. If no work start operation has been performed, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT33 and transitions to the processing of ACT32. If a work start operation has been performed, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT34 and transitions to the processing of ACT11.

[0063] As ACT34, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115 and sets the extension timer 1153 to the set extension time stored in the timer information storage unit 133.

[0064] In ACT 35 , the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115 and resets the concentration flag 132 .

[0065] In ACT36, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115, and starts counting the remaining time of the extension time using the extension timer 1153.

[0066] As ACT37, the processor 11 operates as the display control unit 111 and causes the touch display 3 to update and display the remaining time screen. Specifically, the processor 11 generates image information of the remaining time screen indicating the remaining time of the extension time being measured by the extension timer 1153, supplies this to the touch display 3 via the input / output interface 15, and causes the touch display 3 to display the remaining time screen based on this image information. In this case, no sound is used to notify the user of the end of work time or the end of a break, so the concentration of a worker who is concentrating on work is not interrupted.

[0067] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a remaining time screen 33 that is displayed on the touch display 3 while the worker is working on an extended task. The remaining time screen 33 that is displayed during this extension displays the remaining time of the extended time measured by the extension timer 1153 along with the remaining time of the work time measured by the work timer 1151. FIG. 9 shows an example in which the remaining time of the extended work time is 2 minutes and 45 seconds. "Work time 0:00" indicates that the specified work time measured by the work timer 1151 has ended. The remaining time screen 33 lets the worker know that the work time timer is being automatically extended.

[0068] In ACT38, the processor 11 operates as the timer status management unit 115 and determines whether the extension timer 1153 has timed out, that is, whether the clocking of the set extension time has finished. If the extension timer 1153 has not yet timed out, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT38 and transitions to the processing of ACT 39. If the extension timer 1153 has timed out, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT38 and transitions to the processing of ACT26.

[0069] In ACT 39, the processor 11, operating as the operation determination unit 112, determines whether an end operation has been performed to instruct the end of the extended work. As shown in FIG. 9 , the remaining time screen 33 includes an "End work time" button 34 that is operated when ending the work. For example, even if the worker is concentrating, it is conceivable that the worker would like to take a break on time without extending the work time. In such a case, the worker operates the "End work time" button 34. The processor 11 can make the determination in ACT 39 by determining whether the "End work time" button 34 has been operated. If an end operation has not been performed, the processor 11 determines "NO" in ACT 39 and proceeds to the processing of ACT 37. If an end operation has been performed, the processor 11 determines "YES" in ACT 39 and proceeds to the processing of ACT 40.

[0070] In ACT40, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115 and resets the extension timer 1153. Thereafter, the processor 11 transitions to the processing of ACT28.

[0071] The processing operations shown in this flowchart are ended, for example, by turning off a power button (not shown).

[0072] In this way, when the processor 11 alternately counts the remaining time of the work time and the rest time, if it determines that the worker's current or future concentration level is sufficiently high when the specified time approaches the end time of the set work time, it extends the timer end time of the work time.

[0073] It is also possible that a worker may want to complete a task within a set time period regardless of the worker's level of concentration. To accommodate such a situation, in addition to setting the work time, break time, and extension time, the worker may be allowed to select whether to turn the extension function on or off. Of course, the on / off selection of this extension function may be changed at any time during work or a break.

[0074] Furthermore, if the concentration flag 132 is set when the work is temporarily suspended during the work, the concentration flag 132 may be reset.

[0075] As described above, the work support device 1 according to the first embodiment includes an input / output interface 15 as an interface with the concentration measurement sensor, which is a sensor for detecting the concentration level of the worker himself / herself while working, and the touch display 3, which is a presentation device for presenting information to the worker, a processor 11, and a concentration level recording unit 131, which is a memory. The processor 11 alternately measures the remaining time of the work time and the rest time, which are each specified time, and at the end of each, notifies the worker that the work time or the rest time has ended on the touch display 3 via the input / output interface 15. The processor 11 also obtains the concentration level of the worker while working from the concentration measurement sensor 2 via the input / output interface 15 as the worker state, stores the concentration level in the concentration level recording unit 131, and extends the measured work time based on the concentration level value stored in the concentration level recording unit 131. With this configuration, the work support device 1 automatically extends the work time depending on the worker's condition, for example, the worker's level of concentration on the work, making it possible to encourage the worker to take a break without disturbing the worker's concentration on the work. Also, the length of work time that each worker can maintain concentration for is thought to differ depending on their individual characteristics, and it is cumbersome for each worker to set a time that suits them as the work time to be timed, but the work support device 1 according to the first embodiment automatically adjusts the work time to suit the individual's characteristics, eliminating such complication.

[0076] The worker state is not limited to the concentration level, but may be any state of the worker itself, such as the level of relaxation, sleepiness, or stress.

[0077] Furthermore, in the work support device 1 according to the first embodiment, the processor 11 compares the concentration level stored in the concentration level recording unit 131 with a threshold value, and if the concentration level is higher than a specified range relative to the threshold value, extends the measured work time. With this configuration, the work assistance device 1 can easily determine whether or not the worker is concentrating on the work.

[0078] The processor 11 calculates the average value of the concentration level values ​​stored in the concentration level recording unit 131 from the time the worker starts the work, and sets the calculated average value as the threshold value. With this configuration, the work assistance device 1 can use a threshold value that matches the characteristics related to the concentration level of an individual, and therefore can accurately determine whether or not the worker is concentrating.

[0079] In addition, the processor 11 predicts the future concentration level based on the concentration level value stored in the concentration level recording unit 131 after the worker starts the work, and compares the predicted value with a threshold value. With this configuration, the work support device 1 can predict future changes in the worker's concentration level and extend the work time, so even if extension is not necessary based on the current concentration level, the work time can be extended if it is predicted that the concentration level will be high by the time the work time ends.

[0080] [Variations] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing a modified portion of the flowchart shown in Fig. 7 for explaining an example of the operation of the work support device 1 according to a modified example of the first embodiment. In this modified example, prior to setting the extension time in the extension timer 1153 in ACT 34, in ACT 41, the processor 11 operates as the concentration state determination unit 114 and calculates the extension time to be set. That is, while in the first embodiment the extension time was a fixed value, that is, the set extension time stored in the timer information storage unit 133, in this modified example, this is a non-fixed value. Specifically, the processor 11 calculates the extension time depending on how much the current concentration level or the predicted value of the future concentration level is higher than a threshold value.

[0081] In this way, by varying the extension time based on the current or future concentration level, it is possible to extend the working time in accordance with the worker's level of concentration.

[0082] [Second embodiment] In the first embodiment, the work time is extended based on the level of concentration during work. However, depending on the characteristics and condition of the worker, it is expected that productivity will decrease due to insufficient concentration during the work time. In such cases, it may be preferable to take a break rather than forcing the worker to continue working. Therefore, in the second embodiment, the remaining work time is shortened based on the current level of concentration or the predicted future level of concentration, and if this level of concentration is sufficiently lower than a threshold, a message is displayed suggesting that the worker take a break sooner.

[0083] The second embodiment will be described in detail below, but the same configurations and operations as those of the first embodiment described above will be given the same reference symbols as those of the first embodiment, and their description will be omitted.

[0084] 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a work support device 1 according to the second embodiment. In the work support device 1 according to this embodiment, the timer state management unit 115 of the processor 11 has a reduction timer 1154 in addition to the work timer 1151, break timer 1152, and extension timer 1153 of the first embodiment. Furthermore, the stored contents of the timer information storage unit 133 are different from those of the first embodiment.

[0085] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents stored in the timer information storage unit 133 included in the work support device 1. As shown in FIG. 12, in this embodiment, the timer information storage unit 133 stores a set reduction time, a first specified time, and a second specified time in addition to the set work time, set rest time, and set extension time of the first embodiment. The set reduction time is the maximum reduction time, such as 15 minutes, when the work time is reduced when the worker is not concentrating on the work. The first specified time is the time at which a determination is made as to whether or not to reduce the work time, and the second specified time is the time at which a determination is made as to whether or not to extend the work time. These set reduction time, first specified time, and second specified time are also set as initial values ​​by the work support program or can be set to any time by the worker. Note that the first specified time is preferably longer than the set reduction time. Therefore, the first specified time may be automatically set based on the set reduction time, for example, by adding 15 minutes to the set reduction time. The second specified time corresponds to the specified time in the first embodiment.

[0086] 13 and 14 are a series of flowcharts illustrating an example of the operation of the work support device 1. In this embodiment, the processor 11 updates and displays the remaining time screen on the touch display 3 in ACT 13, and then determines in ACT 51 whether a certain time, for example, 10 minutes, has elapsed since the work timer 1151 started timing. If the certain time has not elapsed, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT 51 and proceeds to processing in ACT 52. If the certain time has elapsed, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 51 and proceeds to processing in ACT 15, where data on the worker's concentration level is obtained from the concentration level measurement sensor 2. Depending on individual characteristics, it is possible that the concentration level increases after a certain time has elapsed rather than immediately after the start of work. In such cases, it is considered that the concentration level is actually low immediately after the start of work. Therefore, in this embodiment, the concentration level is obtained after a certain time has elapsed after the start of work.

[0087] In ACT 52, the processor 11 determines whether or not it is within a first specified time until the time expires on the work timer 1151. If it is not within the first specified time until the time expires on the work timer 1151, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT 52 and transitions to processing in ACT 54. If it is within the first specified time until the time expires on the work timer 1151, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 52 and transitions to processing in ACT 22.

[0088] In ACT 53, the processor 11 determines whether or not the second specified time has elapsed until the time expires on the work timer 1151. If the second specified time has not elapsed until the time expires on the work timer 1151, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT 53 and transitions to the processing of ACT 17. If the second specified time has elapsed until the time expires on the work timer 1151, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 53 and transitions to the processing of ACT 22.

[0089] In ACT 54, processor 11 determines the concentration state of the worker based on the time-series data of the concentration level values ​​recorded in concentration level recording unit 131. In ACT 22, processor 11 determines that the worker is concentrated if the current concentration level or future concentration level is higher than a specified range with respect to the threshold, that is, if the worker's current concentration level is sufficiently high. In contrast, in ACT 54, processor 11 determines that the worker is not concentrating if the current concentration level or future concentration level is lower than a specified range with respect to the threshold, that is, if the worker's current concentration level is sufficiently low.

[0090] In ACT 55, the processor 11 operates as the concentration state determination unit 114 and determines whether or not a determination result indicating a non-concentrated state has been obtained. If a determination result indicating a non-concentrated state has not been obtained, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT 55 and transitions to the processing of ACT 13. If a determination result indicating a non-concentrated state has been obtained, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 55 and transitions to the processing of ACT 56.

[0091] In ACT 56, the processor 11 operates as the timer status management unit 115 and determines whether the remaining work time measured by the work timer 1151 is longer than the set reduction time stored in the timer information storage unit 133. If the remaining work time is not longer than the set reduction time, this means that the remaining time is shorter than the maximum reduction time already stored as the set reduction time, and the worker is asked to take a break immediately. In this case, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT 56 and transitions to processing in ACT 26. If the remaining work time is longer than the set reduction time, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 56 and transitions to processing in ACT 57.

[0092] In ACT 57, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115 and sets the set reduction time stored in the timer information storage unit 133 in the reduction timer 1154.

[0093] In ACT58, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115, and starts counting the remaining time of the reduction time using the reduction timer 1154.

[0094] As ACT59, the processor 11 operates as the display control unit 111 and causes the touch display 3 to update and display the remaining time screen. Specifically, the processor 11 generates image information of the remaining time screen that indicates the remaining time of the work time and the reduction time being measured by the work timer 1151 and the reduction timer 1154, supplies this to the touch display 3 via the input / output interface 15, and causes the touch display 3 to display the remaining time screen based on this image information.

[0095] Fig. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a remaining time screen 35 that is displayed on the touch display 3 while the worker is shortening the work time. This remaining time screen 35 that is displayed while the work time is being shortened displays the remaining time of the work time measured by the work timer 1151 as well as the remaining time of the shortened time measured by the reduction timer 1154. Fig. 15 shows an example in which the remaining time of the work time is 18 minutes 59 seconds, and the remaining time of the shortened work time measured by the reduction timer 1154 is 2 minutes 33 seconds. This remaining time screen 35 allows the worker to know that the work time timer is being automatically shortened.

[0096] In ACT 60, the processor 11 operates as the timer status management unit 115 and determines whether the reduction timer 1154 has timed out, that is, whether the measurement of the set reduction time has finished. If the reduction timer 1154 has not yet timed out, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT 60 and transitions to the processing of ACT 61. If the reduction timer 1154 has timed out, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT 60 and transitions to the processing of ACT 26.

[0097] In ACT61, the processor 11 operates as the operation determination unit 112 and determines whether a cancel operation has been performed to instruct the cancellation of the work time reduction. As shown in FIG. 15, the remaining time screen 35 includes a "Cancel reduction" button 36 that is operated when canceling the work time reduction. For example, it is assumed that the worker wants to increase his / her concentration level and continue working until the end of the work time. In such a case, the worker operates the "Cancel reduction" button 36. The processor 11 can make the determination in ACT61 by determining whether the "Cancel reduction" button 36 has been operated. If a cancel operation has not been performed, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT61 and proceeds to the processing of ACT59. If a cancel operation has been performed, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT61 and proceeds to the processing of ACT62.

[0098] In ACT62, the processor 11 operates as the timer state management unit 115 and resets the reduction timer 1154. Thereafter, the processor 11 transitions to the processing of ACT13.

[0099] In this way, when the first specified time approaches the end time of the set work time, if it is determined thereafter that the worker's current or future concentration level is sufficiently low, the processor 11 shortens the end time of the timer for the work time.

[0100] In this embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, the worker may be allowed to select whether to turn on or off the shortcut function.

[0101] As described above, in the work support device 1 according to the second embodiment, the processor 11 compares the concentration level stored in the concentration level recording unit 131 with a threshold value, and if the concentration level is lower than a specified range relative to the threshold value, shortens the measured work time. With this configuration, the work support device 1 extends the work time when the worker is concentrating on the work, and conversely, shortens the time until the end of the work time when the worker is not concentrating on the work, thereby encouraging the worker to take a break. Therefore, it is possible to encourage the worker to take a break earlier than specified without hindering the worker's concentration on the work, and when the worker is not concentrating.

[0102] Furthermore, in the work support device 1, the processor 11 determines whether to shorten the work time if it is within a first preset time from the end time of the work time being measured, i.e., within a first specified time until the time expires on the work timer 1151, and determines whether to extend the work time if it is before a second preset time that is shorter than the first set time from the end time of the work time, i.e., the second specified time until the time expires. With this configuration, the work support device 1 can encourage the worker to take an early break when the concentration level is low, and can extend the work time so that the worker can continue working if the concentration level is high when the time is approaching the end.

[0103] [Third embodiment] In the first or second embodiment, the work time is extended or shortened based on the concentration level during work. However, the amount of time that each individual can maintain concentration varies. Therefore, it is possible to adjust the times of the work timer 1151 and the rest timer 1152 according to the characteristics of each individual. In the third embodiment, the concentration level of the worker measured by the concentration level measurement sensor 2 is used to adjust the times of the work timer 1151 and the rest timer 1152.

[0104] The third embodiment will be described in detail below, but the same configurations and operations as those of the first and second embodiments will be given the same reference symbols as those of the first and second embodiments, and their description will be omitted.

[0105] FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of the work support device 1 according to the third embodiment, and FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents stored in the timer information storage unit 133 provided in the work support device 1.

[0106] In the work support device 1 according to this embodiment, the auxiliary storage device 13 does not have a concentration flag 132 as in the first and second embodiments. Instead, in this embodiment, the auxiliary storage device 13 has a user information storage unit 134 and a per-user concentration level recording unit 135. The user information storage unit 134 stores authentication information for each of a plurality of users who may be workers. The per-user concentration level recording unit 135 accumulates a history of time-series data of concentration level values ​​obtained during past tasks performed by each user.

[0107] 17, the timer information storage unit 133 stores a set work time, a set break time, an adjusted work time, and an adjusted break time. The set work time and the set break time are as described in the first embodiment. The adjusted work time and the adjusted break time are work times and break times adjusted from the set work time and the set break time according to the characteristics of the worker.

[0108] Furthermore, in the work support device 1 according to this embodiment, the timer state management unit 115 of the processor 11 does not have the extension timer 1153 and the reduction timer 1154 as in the first and second embodiments, but only has a work timer 1151 and a rest timer 1152. The processor 11 also includes a user authentication unit 116, a user data management unit 117, and a concentration characteristic determination unit 118 in addition to the display control unit 111, the operation determination unit 112, the concentration level acquisition unit 113, the concentration state determination unit 114, and the timer state management unit 115. The user authentication unit 116 authenticates a user who will become a worker based on the user operation determined by the operation determination unit 112 and the user information stored in the user information storage unit 134. At a predetermined timing, such as when the authenticated user logs off, the user data management unit 117 adds the time-series data of the concentration level recorded in the concentration level recording unit 131 to the user's concentration level history stored in the user information storage unit 134. Based on the concentration level history of the authenticated user recorded in per-user concentration level recording unit 135, concentration characteristic determination unit 118 adjusts the set work time stored in timer information storage unit 133 to a work time that suits the concentration level characteristics of the authenticated user, and stores the adjusted work time in timer information storage unit 133. Also, based on the concentration level history of the authenticated user, concentration characteristic determination unit 118 adjusts the set break time stored in timer information storage unit 133 to a break time that suits the concentration level characteristics of the authenticated user, and stores the adjusted break time in timer information storage unit 133. Alternatively, concentration characteristic determination unit 118 may calculate the break time based on the adjusted work time.

[0109] 18 and 19 are a series of flowcharts for explaining an example of the operation of the work assistance device 1. Note that these flowcharts show the operation after user authentication.

[0110] In ACT 71 , the processor 11 operates as the concentration characteristic determination unit 118 and reads out from the user concentration level recording unit 135 the history of the concentration level of the user who is to become the worker and who has been authenticated by the user authentication unit 116 .

[0111] As ACT72, processor 11 operates as concentration characteristic determination unit 118 and determines the concentration characteristic of the user based on the read history of the user's concentration level. For example, if, in transition data showing past transitions in concentration level, the time it took for the concentration level to fall below a certain threshold is shorter than a predetermined specified time, concentration characteristic determination unit 118 determines that the user is someone who cannot maintain concentration for a long time. Conversely, if the time is longer than the predetermined time, concentration characteristic determination unit 118 determines that the user is someone who can maintain concentration for a long time.

[0112] Furthermore, the concentration characteristic determination unit 118 may determine that the user is unable to maintain concentration for a long time if the time from the start of a task to the loss of concentration is shorter than a predetermined time, and conversely, determine that the user is able to maintain concentration for a long time if the time is longer than the predetermined time. Regarding whether or not the user has lost concentration, the concentration characteristic determination unit 118 may determine that the user has lost concentration if, in past transition data of the concentration level, a predetermined determination time has passed since the concentration level fell below a certain threshold without rising above the threshold. FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of past transition data of the concentration level. The horizontal axis of FIG. 20 represents time, and the vertical axis represents the concentration level. For example, in the example of transition data shown in FIG. 20, the concentration level falls below the threshold TH at elapsed time t1 from the start of the task, but returns above the threshold TH within the determination time JT at elapsed time t2. Therefore, the concentration characteristic determination unit 118 does not determine that the user has lost concentration. In contrast, the concentration level, which fell below the threshold value TH at elapsed time t3 from the start, does not return to above the threshold value TH at elapsed time t4, even after the judgment time JT has elapsed, so the concentration characteristic judgment unit 118 determines that the concentration level has ended and regards the period from elapsed time t4 onwards as a non-concentration period NCP in which concentration has ended.

[0113] In addition, if the user's concentration history includes multiple past time series data, the concentration characteristic determination unit 118 may use the most recent data or may make a judgment using the time until the average concentration level expires.

[0114] As ACT73, the processor 11 operates as the concentration characteristic determination unit 118, sets the work time and the rest time according to the determined user characteristics, and stores them in the timer information storage unit 133 as the adjusted work time and the adjusted rest time.

[0115] For example, for a user who is determined to be unable to maintain a level of concentration for a long period of time, the task time presented to the user is adjusted to a time shorter than the set task time stored in timer information storage unit 133. On the other hand, for a user who is determined to be able to maintain a level of concentration for a long period of time, the task time is adjusted to a time longer than the set task time. Processor 11 then stores this adjusted task time in timer information storage unit 133 as the adjusted task time.

[0116] Similarly, the processor 11 adjusts the set break time stored in the timer information storage unit 133 and stores the adjusted break time in the timer information storage unit 133.

[0117] Note that if the work time is adjusted to be shorter, and the break time is set to a fixed set break time stored in the timer information storage unit 133, the total break time may be longer than the specified combination when work and breaks are repeated. Conversely, if the adjusted work time is long, the total break time may be shorter. Therefore, when the work time is adjusted to be shorter than the specified set work time, it is desirable that the processor 11 also adjusts the break time to be shorter and stores the adjusted break time in the timer information storage unit 133 as the adjusted break time. In adjusting this break time, a possible method is to adjust the ratio between the adjusted work time and the adjusted break time so that it becomes constant, based on the time ratio between the set work time and the set break time stored in the timer information storage unit 133.

[0118] As ACT74, the processor 11 operates as the display control unit 111 and causes the touch display 3 to display a start screen.

[0119] In ACT75, the processor 11 operates as the operation determination unit 112 and determines whether or not a work start operation has been performed to instruct starting a timer for counting the remaining work time. For example, the processor 11 can make the determination in ACT75 by determining whether or not the "Start work" button on the start screen has been operated. If a work start operation has not been performed, the processor 11 determines NO in ACT75 and transitions to the processing of ACT74. If a work start operation has been performed, the processor 11 determines YES in ACT75 and transitions to the processing of ACT11 shown in FIG. 19.

[0120] The processing from ACT11 onwards differs in this embodiment in the following respects. In ACT11, when the processor 11 sets the work timer 1151 to the work time stored in the timer information storage unit 133, it sets the adjusted work time instead of the set work time.

[0121] When it is determined in ACT 14 that the operation timer 1151 has timed out, the processor 11 transitions to the processing of ACT 26. On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation timer 1151 has not timed out, the processor 11 transitions to the processing of ACT 51 as in the second embodiment.

[0122] When it is determined in ACT51 that a certain period of time has not elapsed since the work timer 1151 started timing, and after data on the worker's concentration level is acquired in ACT15, the processor 11 proceeds to processing in ACT17.

[0123] In ACT28, when the processor 11 sets the break time stored in the timer information storage unit 133 in the break timer 1152, it sets the adjusted break time instead of the set break time.

[0124] In this way, the processor 11 can alternately measure work time and rest time adjusted based on the concentration characteristics of the user who will be the worker, and notify the user that the measurement has ended when the time ends.

[0125] 21 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the task support device 1 related to the process of storing past concentration levels. The processor 11 performs this operation at a predetermined timing.

[0126] In ACT 101 , the processor 11 operates as the user data management unit 117 and reads out the time-series data of the concentration level of the worker recorded in the concentration level recording unit 131 .

[0127] As ACT102, the processor 11 operates as the user data management unit 117 and stores the time series data of the read concentration level value in the history of the relevant user among the histories for each user stored in the user concentration level recording unit 135.

[0128] In this way, the processor 11 can update the stored contents of the per-user concentration level recording unit 135. Note that the predetermined timing may be, for example, when the processor 11 performs a logoff operation by the user who is the worker, at regular intervals, when the work assistance device 1 is powered on or off, or the like. If the processor 11 is configured to perform this operation when the power is powered on or off, it is also necessary for the concentration level recording unit 131 to be able to store time-series data of the concentration level values ​​for each user.

[0129] As described above, in the work support device 1 according to the third embodiment, the user-specific concentration recording unit 135 serves as a memory and stores the history of the worker's state for work that the worker has previously performed, and the processor 11 extends the work time based on the history of the worker's state stored in the user-specific concentration recording unit 135. With this configuration, it is possible to adjust the work time to suit the characteristics of each individual worker, and to encourage workers to take breaks without disrupting their concentration on their work.

[0130] If the work assistance device 1 belongs to an individual and is not used by other users, the user authentication process may be omitted, and the per-user concentration level recording unit 135 may store only the history of time-series data of the user's past concentration level values. In this case, the per-user concentration level recording unit 135 may be integrated into the concentration level recording unit 131, and the history may be stored in the concentration level recording unit 131 in a non-volatile manner.

[0131] [Variations] FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a work support system including a work support server 4 as a modified example of the work support device according to the third embodiment. The work support server 4 includes a processor 41, a main memory 42, an auxiliary storage device 43, a clock 44, a network interface 45, and a system transmission path 46. The processor 41, the main memory 42, the auxiliary storage device 43, the clock 44, and the system transmission path 46 correspond to the processor 11, the main memory 12, the auxiliary storage device 13, the clock 14, and the system transmission path 16 in the work support device 1 according to the third embodiment. The network interface 45 communicates with each of a plurality of remote terminals RT via a network NW. The remote terminal RT includes a concentration level measuring sensor 2, a touch display 3, and a communication device 5 for transmitting and receiving data between them and the work support server 4 via the network NW.

[0132] With this configuration, it becomes possible to control the work hours and rest hours of multiple users with one work support server 4.

[0133] [Fourth embodiment] In the first or second embodiment, in which the working time is extended or shortened based on the degree of concentration during the work, it is also possible to adjust the extended or shortened time according to the individual characteristics of the worker, as in the third embodiment.

[0134] 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of a work support device 1 according to the fourth embodiment. This work support device 1 adds a user authentication unit 116, a user data management unit 117, a concentration characteristic determination unit 118, a user information storage unit 134, and a user concentration degree recording unit 135, as described in the third embodiment, to the configuration of the work support device according to the second embodiment.

[0135] FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of the contents stored in the timer information storage unit 133 included in the work support device 1. This timer information storage unit 133 stores an adjusted work time, an adjusted rest time, an adjusted extension time, an adjusted reduction time, an adjusted first specified time, and an adjusted second specified time, in comparison with the configuration of the timer information storage unit 133 in the work support device according to the second embodiment. As described in the third embodiment, the adjusted work time and the adjusted rest time are times adjusted from the set work time and set rest time based on the individual characteristics of the worker. Similarly, the adjusted extension time, the adjusted reduction time, the adjusted first specified time, and the adjusted second specified time can also be times adjusted from the set extension time, the set reduction time, the set first specified time, and the set second specified time based on the individual characteristics of the worker.

[0136] The operation of such a configuration can be the same as that of the second embodiment except for the following points.

[0137] In ACT11, the processor 11 sets the adjustment work time in the work timer 1151.

[0138] In ACT28, the processor 11 sets the adjusted break time in the break timer 1152.

[0139] In ACT34, the processor 11 sets the extension timer 1153 to the adjusted extension time.

[0140] In ACT52, it is determined whether or not the time until the operation timer 1151 expires is within the adjusted first specified time.

[0141] In ACT53, it is determined whether the adjusted second specified time has elapsed until the time of the operation timer 1151 expires.

[0142] In ACT57, the processor 11 sets the adjustment reduction time in the reduction timer 1154.

[0143] As described above, in the work support device 1 according to the fourth embodiment, the user-specific concentration recording unit 135 serves as a memory and stores the history of the worker's state for work that the worker has performed in the past, and the processor 11 adjusts the work time, rest time, extension time, and reduction time based on the history of the worker's state stored in the user-specific concentration recording unit 135. With this configuration, work time and rest time can be adjusted to suit the characteristics of each individual worker, and furthermore, work time can be extended or shortened depending on the worker's level of concentration, making it possible to encourage workers to take rest without hindering their concentration on their work.

[0144] In the above embodiment, the control program executed by the work assistance device 1 may be configured to be provided by being recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM. Also, the control program may be configured to be stored on a computer connected to a network NW such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network.

[0145] Furthermore, the flow of the information processing performed by the processor 11 described with reference to the flowchart is an example, and is not limited to this order. For example, ACT 34 and ACT 35 in the flowchart of Figure 7 may be reversed in order, or may be performed in parallel. In this way, the order of processing may be changed, or multiple processes may be performed in parallel, as long as there is no discrepancy with the preceding or subsequent processing.

[0146] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the concentration level recording unit 131, the concentration flag 132, and the timer information storage unit 133 are provided in the auxiliary storage device 13, but of course they may be provided in the main memory 12. However, in the third embodiment, if the configuration is such that the operation shown in Fig. 21 is executed when the power is turned on, the concentration level recording unit 131 needs to be provided in a non-volatile memory area of ​​the main memory 12.

[0147] The touch display 3 may be configured integrally with the work support device 1, and the work support device 1 with the touch display 3 may be attached to the wall of the work booth BO. Furthermore, the work support device 1 with the touch display 3 may be configured as an information processing device such as a smartphone carried by the worker. In this case, a work support program, which is a control program for realizing the operation of the work support device 1 as described in the embodiment, may be installed as an application program for the information processing device in the information processing device, and the information processing device may be connected to the concentration measurement sensor 2 via a wired or wireless connection to execute the work support program. Furthermore, such an information processing device may be a work personal computer PC.

[0148] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0149] 1...Work support device, 2...Concentration level measurement sensor, 3...Touch display, 4...Work support server, 5...Communication device, 11,41...Processor, 12,42...Main memory, 13,43...Auxiliary storage device, 14,44...Clock, 15...Input / output interface, 16,46...System transmission path, 31,33,35...Remaining time screen, 32..."Interrupt work" button, 34..."End work time" button, 36..."Cancel shortening" button, 45...Network interface, 111...Display control unit, 112...Operation determination unit, 113...Concentration level acquisition unit, 114...Concentration state determination unit, 115...Timer state management unit, 1151...Work timer, 1152...Break timer, 1153...Extension timer, 1154...Shortening timer, 116...User authentication unit, 117...User data management unit, 118...concentration characteristic determination unit, 131...concentration level recording unit, 132...concentration flag, 133...timer information storage unit, 134...user information storage unit, 135...concentration level recording unit for each user, BO...work booth, CH...worker chair, DE...worker desk, DI...worker display, JT...determination time, KE...worker keyboard, NCP...non-concentration period, NW...network, PC...work personal computer, RT...remote terminal, TH...threshold value.

Claims

1. The system includes an interface with a sensor that detects the state of a worker who is working and a presentation device that presents information to the worker, a processor, and a memory; The processor: alternately measuring the remaining time of a work time and a break time, each of which is a specified time, and at the end of each, presenting the end of the work time or the break time to the worker via the interface using the presentation device; acquiring the worker status from the sensor via the interface and storing the status in the memory; extending the working time based on the worker status stored in the memory; Work support equipment.

2. the processor determines whether to extend the work time before a preset time from the end time of the work time being measured, The work support device according to claim 1 .

3. The processor further reduces the task time based on the worker status stored in the memory. The work support device according to claim 1 .

4. The processor: If the end time of the work time being measured is within a first set time, it is determined whether or not to shorten the work time; If the end time of the work time being measured is before a second set time that is set in advance, it is determined whether or not to extend the work time; The first set time is longer than the second set time. The work support device according to claim 3 .

5. the memory stores a history of the worker's status for work previously performed by the worker; The processor extends the working time based on the history of the worker state stored in the memory. The work support device according to claim 1 .

6. A work support method for alternately timing a specified time for a worker's work time and the remaining time of a break time, and notifying the worker of the end of the work time or the break time at the end of each time, comprising: a processor clocking the remaining time of the work time and the rest time; The processor acquires the worker status from a sensor that detects the worker status of the worker himself during the work, and stores the worker status in a memory; The processor extends the working time based on the worker status stored in the memory. Work support method.

7. When executed by a processor of a work support device including an interface with a sensor that detects a worker's state while the worker is working and a presentation device that presents information to the worker, a processor, and a memory, the processor, The remaining time of the specified work time and break time is clocked alternately, acquiring the worker status from the sensor via the interface and storing the status in the memory; extending the working time being measured based on the worker status stored in the memory; When the measured working time or rest time ends, the end of the working time or rest time is presented to the worker by the presentation device via the interface. Occupational support program.

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